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Signalman Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Federal Railroad Administration

ME · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train control and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Federal Railroad Administration

TX · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train control and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Federal Railroad Administration

ME · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train control and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Federal Railroad Administration

MA · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train control and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Federal Railroad Administration

TX · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train control and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

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How much do signalman railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for signalman railroad in the United States is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a signalman railroad?

A signalman in the railroad industry is responsible for operating and maintaining the signaling systems that control train movements. Their work ensures trains run safely and efficiently by managing track switches, signals, and communication between trains and control centers. Signalmen may work from signal boxes, control rooms, or on the track itself, performing inspections and repairs as needed. Their job is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth flow of rail traffic.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a signalman railroad?

To thrive as a Signalman Railroad, you need a solid understanding of railroad signaling systems, electrical circuitry, and safety regulations, typically gained through vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with specialized diagnostic tools, signal testing equipment, and computerized signal control systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial to maintain safe and efficient railway operations and to quickly address signal malfunctions or emergencies.

What are the most common challenges a signalman railroad faces when maintaining railroad signaling equipment?

Signalmen often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, troubleshooting complex electrical systems, and adhering to strict safety protocols. The role requires precise attention to detail, as even minor errors can impact train schedules and safety. Additionally, Signalmen must be prepared to respond to emergencies at any time and collaborate closely with train dispatchers, maintenance crews, and engineers to ensure seamless railway operations.

What is the difference between Signalman Railroad vs Track Inspector?

AspectSignalman RailroadTrack Inspector
CertificationsRailroad safety and signaling certificationsTrack inspection certifications, such as OSHA or FRA standards
Work EnvironmentRail yards, signal towers, on or near tracksRail tracks, maintenance sites, outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agenciesRailroads, transportation agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Signalman Railroad and Track Inspector roles both operate within the railroad industry, focusing on safety and infrastructure. Signalmen primarily manage signaling systems to ensure train movement safety, while Track Inspectors focus on inspecting and maintaining track conditions. Both roles require safety certifications and work outdoors near tracks, but their specific responsibilities differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right career path in rail safety and maintenance.

How much does a signalman railroad make?

The average salary for a signalman railroad is around $50,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. Signalmen typically work in railway environments, performing maintenance and installation of signaling systems, often requiring specialized training or certifications.

How to become a signalman railroad?

To become a railroad signalman, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Knowledge of electrical systems, signals, and safety procedures is essential, and some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the region and employer.

What does a signalman railroad do for the railroad?

A signalman railroad is responsible for operating and maintaining track signals, switches, and safety devices to ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains. They work in a control environment, often using specialized tools and communication systems, and must follow safety protocols and procedures. The role requires attention to detail and knowledge of railway signaling systems.
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What states have the most Signalman Railroad jobs?

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Signalman Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Signalman Railroad job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,682 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control) - BIL DIRECT HIRE- SME

Federal Railroad Administration

Chicago, IL

$89K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train control and highway-rail grade crossing warning systems within an assigned territory.

Qualifications:

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the specialized experience qualifications. 

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector, the Qualifications Standards states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas:

  • Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment.
  • General safety and health principles and practices applicable to the railroad industry.
  • Railroad accident investigation techniques.
  • Skill in written and oral communication.
  • Knowledge of the design, installation, maintenance, testing, or inspection of signal and train control systems and their capabilities and limitations.
  • Knowledge of applicable Federal laws and regulations pertaining to railroad signaling and train control systems; AND
  • Knowledge of locomotive braking systems and their relationship to and interface with train control or automatic train stop systems and braking distances.   

To qualify for the Grade 12, you must have at least one year of experience equal or equivalent to the GS-11 it must include:

  • Experience administering or leading periodic inspections of all signal and train control/and or highway-rail grade crossing warning systems' compliance programs, and building stakeholder consensus to achieve safety goals.
  • Experience investigating independently, or as a part of a team, reportable collisions, derailments, and other accidents involving signal or train control failure; or failure of highway crossing warning equipment when the accident involved rail and vehicle collision.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:

  1. Decision Making- Makes sound, well-informed, and objective decisions; perceives the impact and implications of decisions; commits to action, even in uncertain situations, to accomplish organizational goals; causes change.
  2. Compliance- Knowledge of procedures for assessing, evaluating, and monitoring programs or projects for compliance with Federal laws, regulations, and guidance.
  3. Communication- Experience writing and presenting information pertaining to signal and train control systems and highway- rail grade crossing active warning systems.
  4. Accident Investigation- Knowledge of guidelines, regulations, and procedures associated with an accident investigation including preservation of accident scene, root cause analysis, and evidence detection and handling.

For all types of consideration, experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social).  Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.  You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link:  https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/#url=e4
All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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